Steps to Apply for a Dubai Work Visa Requirements & Cost 2026

2026 Applying for a Dubai work visa is a structured process that usually starts after securing a job offer, because the employer acts as the sponsor and handles most legal formalities through the UAE authorities.

Below is a clear, updated, and practical guide covering eligibility, steps, fees, timelines, and long-term residency options.

1. Eligibility & Basic Requirements 2026

To qualify for a Dubai employment visa, you must meet the following:

Job Offer

• A valid, signed employment contract from a UAE/Dubai-based company

Age Requirement

• Minimum 18 years

Passport Validity

• At least 6 months

Documents Required

• Passport copy & photographs

• Attested educational certificates (if required for the role)

• Experience certificates (for technical or professional roles)

Medical Fitness

• Mandatory UAE medical fitness test (blood test + chest X-ray)

2. Dubai Work Visa Application Process (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Entry Permit (Work Visa / Job Visa)

The employer applies for an entry permit through the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation or the relevant free-zone authority. This permit allows you to enter the UAE for employment legally.

Step 2: Medical Test & Emirates ID

After arrival in Dubai, you have 60 days to:

• Complete the medical fitness test

• Register biometrics and apply forthe Emirates ID

Step 3: Residence Visa Stamping

The employer submits:

• Medical fitness report

• Emirates ID application

Immigration (via General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs) stamps the residence visa in your passport.

Step 4: Labour Card / Work Permit

A Labour Card (Work Permit) is issued, officially authorizing you to work in the UAE.

Step 5: Employment & Family Sponsorship

Once your visa is active:

• Start employment legally

• Sponsor spouse, children, or parents (if salary criteria is met)

3. Important Information You Should Know

Visa Validity

• Typically 2 years (depending on employer/free zone) at 2026

Health Insurance

• Mandatory – provided by the employer

Who Pays the Fees?

• In most cases, the employer covers all visa-related costs

4. Alternative Self-Sponsored Visa Options

If you don’t want employer sponsorship, the UAE offers self-sponsored routes:

Green Visa

• 5-year residency

• For skilled professionals & freelancers

Golden Visa

• 5–10-year residency

• For investors, high-earning professionals, scientists & exceptional talent

Both options allow:

• Family sponsorship

• Job flexibility

• Long-term UAE residence

5. Dubai Work Visa Fees (Indicative)

Category	Estimated Cost (AED)
Work / Entry Permit	1500– 3500
Medical Fitness Test	300 – 750
Emirates ID	370 – 380
Visa Stamping	500 – 1,000
Total Approximate Cost	AED 2,000 – 6,500

6. Processing Time (Average)

Visa Type	Approx. Time
Employment Visa	1 – 2 weeks
Green Visa	3 – 5 weeks
Freelance Visa	3 – 6 weeks
Golden Visa	1 – 2 weeks

Timelines may vary based on employer category, free zone, document accuracy, and government workload.

7. Path to Long-Term Residency in Dubai

Green Visa (5 Years)

• Self-sponsored

• Ideal for freelancers & skilled professionals

Golden Visa (5–10 Years)

• For investors, executives, scientists & exceptional talent

• Long-term stability & premium benefits

How Amazon Attestation & Documents Clearing – DIP Can Help

Amazon Attestation and Documents Clearing offers a complete, end-to-end solution for Dubai work visas and residency services.

Our Support Includes:

• Free eligibility assessment

• Right visa category selection (Employment / Green / Golden / Freelance)

• Document attestation & verification

• Visa filing via MOHRE & GDRFA portals

• Application tracking & follow-ups

• Post-landing support (bank account, accommodation, family sponsorship)

Visit Our Office

Green Community Village, Next to Fortune Hotels, DIP-1, Dubai Investment Park European Business Center, Shop 26 – Dubai

Free Consultation

Call: +971 4 330 0011

One-Stop Solution for All Your Document Processing & Visa Needs in Dubai